Cycads: Ancient Plants Under Attack from Blue Cycad Butterflies
Introduction
Cycads are some of the oldest plants on Earth, with some species, like the sago palm, still popular as houseplants today. Known for their toughness and longevity, these plants can live for hundreds of years. However, a new threat has emerged in recent years: blue cycad butterflies.
About Blue Cycad Butterflies
Blue cycad butterflies are a species of butterfly that has been around for a long time. However, it is only recently that they have become a problem for gardeners. These butterflies are easily recognizable by their pale brown wings with a bluish metallic sheen and orange eye patterns on the back section.
Cycad Blue Butterfly Damage
While adult butterflies do not directly feed on cycads, they lay pale disk-shaped eggs on the young, tender leaves. These eggs hatch into green caterpillars that grow darker as they mature, eventually turning a brown-maroon color.
The caterpillars of blue cycad butterflies hide during the day under the leaves or in the crown of the sago palm. They come out at night to feed on the new growth, causing the attacked foliage to turn yellow and the edges to become dry and straw-like.
Butterfly Invasion on Cycads
In recent years, there have been reports of a sudden increase in the population of blue cycad butterflies, leading to a butterfly invasion on cycad plants. Experts believe that this may be due to changes in climate or habitat loss.
Preventing Blue Cycad Butterfly Damage
Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your cycads from blue cycad butterflies:
- Regularly hose down the crown of your cycad: This can help wash off eggs and prevent them from hatching.
- Use an insecticide: You can make a safe and effective insecticide using Dipel, which is derived from a natural disease that affects caterpillars. Add a few drops of dishwashing soap to the Dipel solution and spray it on the new leaves as they unfold. Repeat the application after rains until the new leaves have hardened off.
Additional Tips
- Inspect your cycads regularly: Look for signs of eggs or caterpillars, especially on the undersides of leaves and in the crown of the plant.
- Remove any eggs or caterpillars you find: If you find any eggs or caterpillars, remove them by hand or use a strong stream of water to knock them off.
- Keep your cycads healthy: Healthy cycads are better able to resist pests and diseases. Make sure your plants are getting the right amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Conclusion
Blue cycad butterflies can be a threat to cycad plants, but by following these tips, you can protect your plants and keep them healthy for years to come.